Impact of Desk Shape on Older People's Sitting and Standing
Author Information
Author(s): Handa Satoru, Kitamura Koji, Kawai Hisashi, Nishida Yoshifumi
Primary Institution: Tokyo Institute of Science
Hypothesis
Slight changes in the three-dimensional shape of daily environments affect the standing and sitting behavior of frail older people.
Conclusion
Minor design features like handrails and fingerholds can help older adults shift their posture without straining their muscles.
Supporting Evidence
- Handrails and fingerholds significantly increased the force to hold the desk.
- The design changes decreased muscle activity needed to push the desk.
- Over 80% of participants felt the desks with handrails were more accessible.
Takeaway
Changing the shape of desks can help older people stand and sit more easily, making them feel safer.
Methodology
The study involved fabricating four types of desks and measuring the movements of frail older people using motion capture and sensors.
Participant Demographics
Frail older people aged 65 to 90 years, with 8 participants having severe sarcopenia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.015
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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